Donegal GAA have led the tributes to “legendary” photographer Michael ‘Jack’ O’Donnell following his passing over the weekend.

The Glenties native was best known for his work at GAA matches throughout the county and beyond its borders, having first submitted work to local papers back in the early 1980s.

His career blossomed from there and he would be behind the lense for both of Donegal’s All-Ireland SFC triumphs in 1992 and 2012.

Described as “a passionate Donegal supporter” and “master of his craft”, Michael passed away on Saturday at the age of 67 following an illness.

Donegal PRO John McEniff led the tributes to Michael with the following statement: 

"It was with great sadness I learned of the passing of Michael Jack O’Donnell on Saturday. Michael was a gentleman to the core, a passionate Donegal supporter, a master of his craft, so amiable and easy to deal with and a huge help in my role as Donegal PRO," it read.

"Cheerfully professional and always eager to be keep abreast of everything about Donegal football he remained on the Donegal Media list throughout his illness and was still among the first to respond to emails thanking me for news or letting me know he wasn’t going to make the upcoming game but might make it next time. Tragically it was never to be. His courtesy, good humour, quiet efficiency, wisdom and re-assuring presence will be sorely missed by all.

"He was a constant presence in the Donegal Press Box and here are condolences, appreciations and lovely tributes from the colleagues in the Donegal Press Corps he shared it with during my stint as Press Officer. My condolences, and those of all the Executive at CLG Dhún na nGall, to Bernie, his mother Nora and all Michael’s family, his many friends and the Naomh Conaill club. May his gentle soul sleep in peace."

Tributes to Michael Jack, legendary Donegal photographer, from his Press Colleagues – Suiamhneas síoraí tabhair do a Thiarna agus ar Dheis Dé go raibh a anam @naomhconaillhttps://t.co/7i5UpPbeWH

— Official Donegal GAA (@officialdonegal) May 3, 2021

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